Construction of the two-mile road has been controversial – just like nearly everything that McClendon, an Oklahoma billionaire and former CEO of Chesapeake Energy Co., has done in Saugatuck Township since he agreed in 2004 to buy the former Denison property.

The DEQ has received more than 1,000 emails, 300 comments at the Kalamazoo District Office and “an overwhelming response from the public,” including residents, business owners, academics, and local and national environmental and advocacy groups about the proposed development.

Wyant said the DEQ, after consultation among staff, determined it is compelled to issue a permit because the road project meets the requirements of the Sand Dunes Protection and Management statute.

He said the DEQ shares concerns with residents about protecting sensitive dunes. Among its conditions for approval are protecting endangered species: two kinds of warblers and pitcher’s thistle.

Wyant is aware that the project isn’t popular with everyone. Last August, most of those at a public hearing opposed building of the road.

The DEQ found no justification to deny a permit.

“We are compelled to issue the permit,” he said. “This is not a permit for the development of 250 homes, a resort and a marina.”

He said that Singapore Dunes wanted the road to access 19 lots, but the DEQ said it would only approve access to 18.

The DEQ said it would work to balance development and protection of the dunes, “one of Michigan’s unique natural resources.”

Singapore Dunes originally wanted to the road to be a loop, constructed in interdunal wetlands. It revised plans so the road would consist of two cul-de-sacs and avoid wetlands.

In the letter to the applicants, the DEQ said Singapore Dunes reduced the overall impact to the environment as well as steep slopes.

“We recognize the complexity of this proposal and appreciate your continued cooperation in this matter,” Wyant wrote.

“We believe that, with the outlined changes, a permit can be issued that minimizes impact to the natural resources and meets all state regulatory requirements,” Wyant said.

Approval for the road “is the key to making the land usable and developable,” said Stephen Neumer, managing director of Singapore Dunes LLC.

He said that later phases call for construction of four condominium buildings, a resort and marina, but plans for a 9-hole golf course have been scrapped.

Meanwhile, McClendon has put his Lake Michigan beach house on the market for $10 million. His entire property, including more than 300 acres, can be had for $40 million.